Oregon vs Tennessee Earthquake Risk

Oregon has a higher earthquake risk with a score of 8/10 (High) compared to Tennessee at 5/10 (Moderate). This means Oregon faces more frequent and potentially more destructive seismic events.

Oregon averages approximately 500 earthquakes per year, while Tennessee averages about 50 per year. Oregon experiences roughly 450 more earthquakes annually.

Oregon is associated with Cascadia subduction zone, Klamath graben. Tennessee is associated with New Madrid Seismic Zone (western TN). These fault systems determine the type and frequency of seismic activity each state experiences.

In Oregon, approximately 80% of the population lives in areas at risk from earthquakes, compared to 25% in Tennessee. Oregon has a larger percentage of residents exposed to seismic hazard.

Oregon's most notable earthquake: 1993 Scotts Mills (M5.6). Tennessee's most notable earthquake: 1811 New Madrid (felt strongly). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.